Exploring the impact of brucellosis on maternal and child health: transmission mechanisms, patient effects, and current trends in drug use and resistance: a scoping review

Abstract

Background

While often unrecognized, brucellosis, a significant zoonotic disease, silently endangers the health of mothers and children worldwide. This scoping review sheds light on transmission pathways, maternal–fetal consequences, and treatment hurdles, specifically considering maternal and child health concerns.

Method

To comprehensively grasp brucellosis in mothers and children, we systematically scoured electronic databases (DOAJ, Google Scholar, PubMed, and Semantic Scholar) for studies published after 2005. Our search included experimental studies (both randomized controlled clinical trials and quasi-experimental), analytical observations, descriptive reports, qualitative papers, and existing systematic reviews. All retrieved data were then charted and processed following Arksey and O'Malley's established framework for scoping reviews.

Result

Twenty-five studies spanning varied regions and methodologies met inclusion criteria. Key findings demonstrate that zoonotic brucellosis acquisition from livestock exposures among vulnerable maternal groups accounts for up to 70% of cases. Vertical transmission from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding was reported in 15–20% of cases. Substantial risks of miscarriage (25%), preterm birth (20%), hepatosplenomegaly (10%), febrile illness (30%), and possible long-term complications were documented. Treatment success rates using combination antibiotic therapy were reported to be as high as 98%, though emerging antibiotic resistance patterns challenge effective treatment, with 25% of Brucella isolates resistant to rifampin and 51% resistant to both trimethoprim-sulfamethoxazole and streptomycin.

Conclusion

This review reveals the alarming yet hidden toll brucellosis takes on maternal–fetal pairs and breastfeeding. In regions battling this endemic disease, tailored education, upgraded diagnostic tools, prompt antibiotic therapy, responsible antimicrobial stewardship, and One Health collaborations offer crucial pathways to shield mothers and children from its harmful consequences. Continued research will pave the way for even better solutions to alleviate this complex zoonosis, particularly for vulnerable populations.